Rickets is more common in regions of Asia where there is pollution and a lack of sunlight and/or low intake of meat due to a vegetarian diet. The Middle East is a region where Vitamin D deficiency rickets is prevalent due to lack of exposure to the sun because of cultural practices (purdah).

What population is most affected by rickets?

Rickets is most common in children who are between 6 and 36 months old. Children are at the highest risk of rickets because they're still growing. Children might not get enough vitamin D if they live in a region with little sunlight, follow a vegetarian diet, or don't drink milk products.

Is rickets more common in certain locations genders and races?

In Australia and Europe, rickets is mostly identified in immigrant populations from the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent (3). Most affected patients have symptoms within the first 6–12 months of life, and there is not a specific gender bias.